[Allergens in the household]

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Allergology
• Toxicology

Background:

• The domestic environment (biotope "household") has undergone significant changes over recent decades.
• These changes have impacted the types and amounts of allergens present in homes.
• Understanding these shifts is crucial for managing allergic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey the evolving landscape of household allergens.
• To differentiate between inhalation and contact allergens.
• To identify common triggers for allergic sensitization and irritation within the home environment.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent decades' changes in the domestic biotope.
• Classification of allergens into organic and inorganic categories.
• Analysis of allergen types causing inhalation versus contact reactions.

Main Results:

• Organic substances, including pets, insects (housedust mites), molds, and organic dusts, are primary inhalation allergens.
• Inorganic substances like cleanser fumes and formaldehyde primarily act as irritants, rarely causing true allergies.
• Inorganic substances (metals, cleansers) are more frequent causes of contact dermatitis than organic materials.
• Certain organic substances (fruit, vegetable, meat, fish juices) can cause allergic sensitization.

Conclusions:

• The modern household presents a dynamic profile of allergens, with organic materials dominating inhalation allergies.
• Inorganic substances play a more significant role in contact allergies and irritant reactions.
• Awareness of these changing allergen profiles is essential for public health and clinical practice.